Before You Leave

Know your destination's IT security laws and practices. It's common for some governments to monitor and store Internet activity or copy data from your device without your consent. At your port of entry, some government authorities may request access to your electronic devices and accounts. See our resources to research country-specific information.

Install updates to your software and operating systems to prevent cyber criminals from exploiting known bugs.

Sanitize your devices to clear them of documents or media that could be perceived as provocative or inflammatory by certain governments.

Less is best. Bring the least amount of information and data and the fewest devices possible.

Utilize travel-only devices that are stripped down to only necessary documents, services, and applications. These devices can be wiped or re-imaged easily after travel and, if confiscated at Customs, contain less personal information. Ask your IT department if they have loaner devices.

Encrypt your devices in case of loss or theft. Harvard-owned devices should be encrypted by policy. Check with your local IT department or personnel to ensure that your system is encrypted. Be aware that certain countries restrict encrypted devices.

During Your Trip

Power off your device, or at least the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, when crossing through security checkpoints and when not in use.

Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) if using hotel or public Wi-Fi to create a more secure connection between your device and the resources you access.

Limit use of public terminals, and don’t use accounts requiring usernames and passwords—especially for Harvard accounts—on public machines.

High-Risk Travelers

If you’re an especially high-risk traveler due to the nature of your work or your destination, contact us for a personalized IT security plan in consultation with your local IT group or HUIT.

Group Travel

If you’re taking a group of students, faculty, or staff overseas and you’re concerned about IT security, we can coordinate a brief IT security overview for your group, conducted by your local IT group or HUIT. Contact us at least a month in advance of your travel.

Additional Resources

Contact us if you have questions or concerns about your IT security abroad. You may also find the following resources helpful for your pre-departure preparation.